A friend of King Charles suggests that Prince Andrew, aged 64, is allowing his pride to hold him back. Reports indicate that Andrew has declined to vacate his residence at Royal Lodge in Windsor Great Park, Berkshire, leading to tensions as the monarch is reportedly considering cutting his brother's £250,000 annual allowance.
This stance has resulted in Prince Andrew becoming increasingly isolated and perhaps tragic within the Grade II listed house, where he is reported to spend his days watching television in dimly lit rooms.
While Andrew had previously agreed to remain at Royal Lodge following discussions with the monarch last year, the situation appears to have changed, according to recent reports.
A source close to King Charles remarked, "As things stand, life at Royal Lodge is set to become increasingly cold and uncomfortable for the duke. The only question now is when he will realize that he has become a prisoner of his own pride — and that relinquishing the property would provide him with greater comfort and the continued support of his family."
Despite his lack of official duties, Prince Andrew resides at the sprawling 30-room mansion in Windsor with his ex-wife, Sarah Ferguson. Originally the residence of Queen Elizabeth The Queen Mother from 1952 until her passing in 2002, it officially became Andrew's home two years later.
However, following his withdrawal from royal duties in the wake of the Jeffrey Epstein scandal, Prince Andrew's continued residence at Royal Lodge has sparked debate and concern within the royal family. If he persists in refusing to move to a more suitable property, such as Frogmore Cottage, which was previously occupied by Prince Harry and Meghan, the King may need to reconsider the level of support provided to Andrew.
King Charles has expressed his desire for his brother to downsize, coinciding with reports of the reduction in Andrew's annual allowance that was previously provided by the late Queen Elizabeth.
